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In this unique book filled with color photographs, children meet Mia, a girl curious about where her family comes from—Italy. Young readers also meet Mia's grandma, who carefully explains the meaning of the word "family" as well as Mia's Italian heritage. Grandma becomes Mia's tour guide and, through careful storytelling, takes Mia to cities like Venice, Rome, and Florence. Mia also learns about Mount Vesuvius, the Tiber River, and Lake Como. By the book's end, young readers have learned that family isn't just people. Cities, mountains, rivers, fields, and even lakes are part of not only a person's larger identity but also their family.
Mia's story and her time with her grandmother are inspirational for those curious about their own cultural identities. Mia spends quality time with her grandmother. While her grandmother's lessons are valuable at the personal level, they are even more so at the universal one. To facilitate these insights, the book also includes "Education Support Activities," which encourage young readers to explore basic human needs, history, science, geography, map work, and botany. A detailed map of Italy's regions familiarizes readers with the country. A list of rivers, mountains, and volcanoes introduces Italy's diverse cartography. This book is a great way to introduce cultural studies. Young readers will appreciate the colorful illustrations and beautiful photography that bring Italy's beauty into their hands. This book is an adventure that children and adults can take together, and it's a teaching tool parents can use to open conversations about their own family's history.